Backcountry Trail Riding Gear for Ultra Comfort

Why drive when you can bike there? That’s usually my motto for errands around home, where roads and trails are paved and it’s easy to get a cargo bike to and from the market. When the weather is beautiful and I want to skip the errands to hit the trail, I usually wear the same cycling clothing.

Among my favorite pieces lately that do great double duty are the Backcountry Slickrock 7-inch Bike Shortand the Backcountry Slickrock Drirelease Long-Sleeve Tech T-Shirt.

The short has a recycled nylon fabric that’s heavy enough to withstand abrasion, but is lightweight enough to wear in warm climates. It’s also stretchy, wicks moisture, and dries quickly. Laser-perforated venting for air circulation keeps you cool when you’re out on the trail. The fabric provides UPF 50+ protection from the sun’s powerful UV rays.

The slim fit of the short works both on its own and with low-profile pads. The articulated hip and high back rise ease pedaling and provide good coverage. An adjustable waist belt and gripper dots on the waistband create a secure fit. Two zippered hand pockets are large enough to fit snacks and tools, or some cash for an end-of-the-trail refreshment.

Don’t want to pack both bike shorts and hiking shorts? This choice does both well. The Slickrock 7-inch Bike Short comes in black, turbulence (gray), oil blue, and red mahogany, and lists between $45.00 and $89.99 (depending on your color choice. Get it on the Backcountry site.

The tee is made with a silky-soft lyocell blend that feels comfortable against the skin especially while riding in warm weather. The drirelease fabric naturally wicks moisture and dries quickly, and body-mapped mesh in the T-shirt boosts breathability. I especially love wearing this tee when I’m riding in Hawaiʻi and want to keep cool, yet want to protect my skin from the sun.

The T-shirt has a moderately loose fit. It drapes well, and isn’t too tight or too wide. If you’re riding with a backpack, the forward shoulder seams of the tee keep irritation to a minimum. A droptail hem gives full coverage when you’re riding, and reflective details improve visibility in low-light conditions. Two drop-in side pockets keep small essentials within reach.

The Slickrock Drirelease Long-Sleeve Tech T-Shirt comes in black, fog (light beige), and a kalamata/turbulence combination of olive and gray. It lists for $59 on the Backcountry site.